Dyna 20X?

Hi Jsman,
I have tried the 20X-L with a Fidelity Research XF-1 type M. This has 30dB gain, (1:31.6 ratio) and is just a bit on the high side with 0.3mV cart output, though a 0.3mV Windfeld can work truly fine with it.
The difference: 6ohm DCR for 20X-L, and 4ohm for Windfeld...

I use a 13ohm primary load resistor which translates to 10.18ohm for what the cart sees. I had left this soldered in place when testing the 20X-L and I think due to the 6ohm slightly higher RDC it **might** have sounded better with something like a 22ohm load resistor resulting in 15ohm for the 20X-L cartridge --- I didn't have such resistor as I only use Tantalums at this critical point.

So, the result: Mixed i.e. not a real improvement such as with the Windfeld. But as I said, depending on the SUT impedance match that could have been bettered, it MIGHT be improved, perhaps much improved.

Sorry not to have a clear yes / no for you.
It is my personal experience though, that once a good impedance match for an MC cart is found with a good trannie, the MC cart has A LOT more to offer in dynamic depth, bass performance, stage width and more naturalness in general.
B U T also less of this unnatural pin-point, carved-out, slightly overstated characteristic of most all MCs ---- as if you are stuck with your head in the recording microphone. That is NEVER what I hear in any live performance (maybe because I do not stand by the conductors desk? i.e. where the micro hangs...)

Greetings,
Axel

Thanks Axel for the info and tips.

Hi Jsman,

In my experience, the 17D3 will be a major leap up from the 20X - far out of proportion to the price difference. Note that I have only experience of the 20X-L and not the 20X-H.

Changing from a 20X-H to a 20X-L/step-up combo will be a "pig in a poke". You might like the "flavor" that the step-up (and/or loading strategy) imparts and ascribe your preference to the cartridge. Alternatively, you might hear little to no positive change.

Of course (as with a shift to a 20X-L), the 17D3, forces you into a low o/p MC strategy - achieving additional gain through a step-up trannie or other means.

I'd either stand pat with what I have, or wait until I could make the leap to the 17D3. I not a fan of recommending small, incremental improvements out of proportion to the money spent.

In the case of a 20X-H to 20X-L swap, you will incur the trade-in loss on your cartridge, plus the cost of a step-up. Taken in this light, the additional expense of moving up to a 17D3 will be a worthwhile one. Stay with what you have, until you're ready for a leap to the 17D3.

Warning - dealer disclaimer.

Cheers,
Thom @ Galibier